Weight loss, wasting and malnutrition are common problems in HIV. Malnutrition can weaken the immune system and increase vulnerability to infections. HIV or associated infections can damage the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, which can interfere with absorption of nutrients. Some HIV positive people experience specific problems, such as fat malabsorption which can impair absorption of fat soluble vitamins. Good nutrition helps keep your immune system strong, enabling you to better fight disease, while poor nutrition can in turn speed the diseases progress. The role of micronutrients in immune function is well established. Adequate hydration and increased calorie and protein intake are necessary to fight the infection. People living with HIV/AIDS tend to present various oral conditions that may affect food intake. Dietary management complements medical treatment and enhances the capacity of the body to fight opportunistic infections.

Dietary guidelines:

• Maintain normal body weight.

• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water.

• Use only pasteurized products.

• Never eat raw egg. Don’t buy eggs with cracked or dirty shells. Cook yolk and white until firm.

• Eat high calorie foods if you are losing weight.

• Eat small frequent meals.

• Heat left overs thoroughly before eating.

• Do not thaw food at room temperature. Instead , thaw food in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or defrost in a microwave oven.

• Cook meat , poultry and fish thoroughly.

Energy requirements: To maintain body weight energy requirements are increased by 10%. Energy requirements are increased by 50% to 100% over normal requirements in children experiencing weight loss.

Vitamins: Vitamins and minerals are essential to keep the body healthy. Vitamin A is important to keep the lining skin, lungs, eyes and gut health. Infection will increase the loss of vitamin A from the body. Vitamin E protects cells and aids resistance to infections. Vitamin C helps to protect the body from infection and aids in recovery. Zinc is important for immune system. Selenium is an important mineral because it helps to activate immune system. Vitamin B is necessary to keep the immune and nervous system healthy. Flavonoids and phytosterols are natural substances, found mainly in fruits and vegetables, which boost the immune system. Sources of flavonoids are citrus fruits, seeds, peas, and whole grains.

Proteins: Meat and milk products supply muscle building proteins and strengthen the immune system. Good protein sources are meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, fish.